Navratan Korma Recipe
Introduction:
Navratan Korma is a royal North Indian vegetarian curry that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavors. The term “Navratan” translates to “nine jewels,” symbolizing the nine ingredients used in this dish. Typically, this korma is made with a variety of mixed vegetables, dry fruits, and aromatic spices that create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Ideal for special occasions or a luxurious family dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy Tawa Paratha or cool Bundi Raita. In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to recreate this delicious Indian classic at home.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delightful serving of Navratan Korma for 4 people.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cashews | 5 |
| Almonds | 5 |
| Melon seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 |
| Mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, etc.) | 1½ cups |
| Ginger-garlic paste | ½ tablespoon |
| Coconut milk | ¾ cup |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Red chilli powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Ghee (or oil) | 2 tablespoons |
| Pomegranate (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashews (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
| Raisins (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch/Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Soak the Dry Ingredients
Start by soaking the cashews, almonds, and melon seeds in water for about 30 minutes. This will soften them, making them easier to blend. After 30 minutes, drain the water and peel the almonds. -
Make the Paste
In a blender or mixer grinder, combine the soaked cashews, almonds, and melon seeds. Blend them into a smooth paste. Set this paste aside for later use. -
Prepare the Onion-Tomato Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee (or oil) in a large pan or kadhai. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become soft and translucent. This should take about 4-5 minutes. -
Add Ginger-Garlic Paste
Once the onions are soft, add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and stir for a minute. Let it cook until the raw smell of the ginger-garlic paste disappears. -
Cook the Spices
Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and the ground paste you prepared earlier. Add ¼ cup of water to help the spices cook and mix everything together well. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. -
Add the Vegetables
Now, add the mixed vegetables to the pan. You can use a variety of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and beans. Stir everything to combine, and then add 1 cup of water. Cover the pan and cook the vegetables on medium heat for 10-15 minutes until they are tender and cooked through. -
Garnish with Roasted Cashews and Pomegranate
In a small frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add the cashews and roast them until golden brown. Once roasted, add the cashews to the korma along with the pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and sweetness. -
Final Touches
To finish off, pour in the coconut milk, stir, and cook for another 5 minutes to allow all the flavors to come together. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. -
Serve
Navratan Korma is best served hot, paired with soft Tawa Parathas or steamed rice. You can also enjoy it with a side of Bundi Raita for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the curry.
Serving Suggestions:
Navratan Korma is a versatile dish that can be paired with various Indian breads like Naan, Tawa Paratha, or steamed rice. For an extra layer of flavor, enjoy it with a refreshing cucumber or Bundi Raita on the side.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Paneer or Tofu: For a more protein-packed dish, you can add cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu to the korma.
- Dry Fruits: You can experiment with other dry fruits like pistachios, walnuts, or raisins to elevate the dish’s texture and flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace ghee with coconut oil and use almond milk instead of coconut milk for a vegan version of this dish.
This Navratan Korma recipe brings together the richness of nuts and spices, making it a truly indulgent dish perfect for special meals. The mix of sweet and savory flavors, combined with the creamy texture, makes it a crowd-pleaser for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
